The percentage of adults who visited a dentist has decreased in both men (from 61.5% to 59.6%) and women (from 69.3% to 65.8%) in recent years. Are you looking for a dentist that you and your family can trust?
Finding the best local dentist isn’t always easy. It takes time, patience, and knowledge of what to look for to make sure your oral health is in good hands. That’s why we’ve compiled nine tips on how to find the right dentist for you and your family.
From researching dentists online to asking friends and family members, our guide will ensure that everyone in your household gets exactly what they need when it comes to dental care.
Read on to discover what you should be thinking about when it comes to choosing a dentist for you and your family. Ensure that you get the best oral care today!
1. Research Dentists Online to Check Reviews and Ratings
Before committing to any dentist, it’s a good idea to research them online. Check out reviews and ratings from past patients to get an understanding of what their experiences were like. You can also look for information about the dentist’s qualifications, specialties, and memberships in professional organizations.
2. Ask Family or Friends for Recommendations
If you’re looking for a dentist, don’t be afraid to ask family or friends for recommendations. Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways to find out about local dentists in your area. See if anyone you know has a great dentist that they would recommend.
3. Check to See if the Dentist and Practice are Licensed
When you’re researching a dentist, make sure to check whether they and their practice are licensed. All dentists should have a valid license displayed in their office and you can check with your local dental board or licensing authority to confirm their credentials.
4. Look for a Dentist Who Specializes in Family Care
If you’re looking for a dentist who can treat the entire family, it’s important to find one who specializes in family care. Make sure they have experience treating children and adults so that everyone is comfortable with their dental health provider.
5. Schedule a Consultation to Get to Know the Dentist
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to meet the dentists in person. Ask them about their experience, qualifications, and any specialties they may have. It’s important that you feel comfortable with your dentist and that you trust their expertise.
6. Learn About Their Services and Costs
When it comes to dental services, not all dentists are created equal. Be sure to ask the dentist about the services they offer and what their fees are for those services. Make sure you understand exactly what’s included in your family’s dental plan and if there are any additional costs or fees that you should be aware of.
7. Consider the Convenience of Location, Hours, and Appointment Availability
The location, hours, and appointment availability of your local dentist should be a key factor in your decision-making process. Make sure the practice is conveniently located for you and your family – close to home or work – and that they have hours that are convenient for everyone’s schedule.
It’s also worth thinking about what emergency care is available and if the dentist provides after-hours care if needed.
Ask about typical waiting times for an appointment and if they offer same-day appointments.
8. Ask About Insurance Coverage
If you have dental insurance, make sure to ask the dentist if they accept your plan. Check with your insurance provider and see what dentists are covered by your plan and look for one who offers services that fit within those restrictions.
When looking for a dentist, it’s important to find one that offers payment options that fit your budget and needs. Most dentists offer a variety of payment plans, such as insurance plans, discounts for cash payments, and sliding-scale fees.
Insurance plans are often the most cost-effective option as they cover the majority of expenses related to your dental care.
9. Inspect Their Facility for Cleanliness and Safety
When you visit the dentist for a consultation, be sure to take a look around their facility. Check for cleanliness and safety measures like up-to-date equipment, sanitation protocols, and protective barriers between patient chairs.
Do they have child-friendly rooms and a comfortable waiting area? All of these factors can make the experience more pleasant for both you and your family.
Key Qualities of a Great Family Dentist
Once you’ve chosen a dentist, it’s important to keep an eye out for certain qualities that make a great family dentist. Look for someone who is friendly, attentive, knowledgeable, and patient.
They should also be willing to take the time to explain procedures and answer any questions you or your family may have.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Are they patient-focused?
- Is your dentist regularly attending training to keep up to date with the best practices?
- Can they offer a wider range of services, or will they send you to a different clinic?
- Has their dental practice won any awards?
- If your children have a fear of dentists, what methods are in place to alleviate this?
Searching for the Best Local Dentist?
Choosing the best local dentist for your family doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right research, you can find someone who meets all of your needs and provides excellent care for everyone in your household.
At Vista Dental, we strive to provide high-quality dental services with an emphasis on patient focus and convenience. Our friendly staff are always happy to answer any questions you may have about our services or payment options. Schedule an appointment today and experience why so many families trust us as their go-to dentists!